Spectators

Spectators

There is a river, deep and quickly flowing. The head and antlers of Elk breaks the surface and he is crying in fear with eyes bulging and scared. His nose pointing up toward the moon as River Otter swims next to him, frantically and unsuccessfully trying to help as this mighty beast is trapped within the currents.

Lining the banks on both sides are people – or at least the shadows of people – and they both cheer and cry loudly at this drama. Several bonfires burn along the shores, creating a festival atmosphere which entices some to dance and wave their arms wildly.

And Elk thrashes about as a show for all these spectators.

I sit upon the branches above all of this, feeling grateful that I can separate myself from these onlookers and voyeurs, and yet in my own way I watch it all, too, with a slight excitement in my chest and a sadness in my heart.

I realize with pain that I really cannot help and that even though I may not be human… I am a spectator, too.

Nate’s work speaks both deeply and directly to the soul, whether it be his sacred artwork or his beautifully crafted sacred objects that are prayers made manifest. Nate is a radiant and beautiful soul who is clearly moved deeply by the world around him and whose work building and supporting communities is very much needed in the world at this time.

This beautiful book tugs on the heartstrings, because we have all felt lost and alone. It may have been written as a children’s book; but I watch tears stream down the face of an adult as she read it. The illustrations are beautiful and reach right into your soul. The words and pictures captured and held the attention of my 4 year old grandson, who still has trouble sitting still and listening.

As I witness Owl’s journey, I am in awe of his heart and his work. Nate’s creations are magical, raw, honest and reflect the poetry of an artist soul. His works exemplify the journey of a Shaman and are clearly inspired by spirit.

You can see and feel spirit within, and also radiating out from, Nate “Owl” Long’s art work with Blue Eye Art. It is apparent that his art and Shamanic tools are masterfully created with positive intention, Divine love, and wisdom.

which contains a sacred Earth, upon which resides sacred plants and animals, sacred thought and prayer, sacred hope and caring. For everything is truly sacred and contains a Spirit that deserves respect and devotion. We, as Human, must find this vision of everything again… for where we have forgotten how to see the magic, everything else within this universe has not.

Thank you for writing books about beautiful wisdom that is mostly lacking from children’s books these days. Your books allow for great talking/thinking points with kids. The drawings are beautiful and capture the kids’ attention.

Helpers is a book for all ages. When I read it to my 5 year old granddaughter, she commented that the author was so creative to have a cave and tree talking. And she liked it. It opened up an opportunity for us to talk about what a helper is, and how they come in many forms.

Wow. What a beautiful and soulful process. Words are hardly sufficient to describe how impressed I am with the Drum that Nate created for me. Neither the drum itself nor the process of its creation was what I expected, and both are perfect. It is obvious that Nate is a deeply talented artist and craftsman, and his talent is a beautiful complement to the inspired and sacred intent with which he creates.

I have known Nate Long for many years and have attended several of his special events and projects. He is a thoughtful ceremonialist, as well as a careful and conscientious leader. I strongly support Nate and recommend attending his programs.

This sweet little book is a wonderful addition to anyone’s bedtime reading library. It is especially relevant to children today, who are not as familiar or friendly with nature as we once were. It is a wonderful introduction to archetypes, and the kind of guidance from nature that we all can benefit from. I highly recommend it.

Helpers by Nate Long “Owl” is a story that reaches beyond our humanity to the smallest grain of sand, or the tiniest drop of water, or an inkling of a new green leaf. We all want and need help sometimes. This book, in it’s beautifully simple storyline and stunning illustrations, offers hope and love in times of need, in times of fear, in times of doubt, helplessness, longing, lonliness, challenge.
This book teaches us to ask for help, for in this vast community and cosmos there are Helpers. Thank You!